Any tips for traveling with a group?

[ChristinaN]

We have a group of about 45 traveling on a March Breakaway cruise, about half the group is children ages 5-12. I'm just wondering if anyone has any tips for traveling with a group? Are there things any special amenities that we can take advantage of?

[Sauer-kraut]

Don't feel you are connected at the hip. Maybe arrange to meet once or twice for a communal dinner and leave everyone to enjoy what they want to do when they want.

 

The Splash Academy will take care of the youngsters and keep them busy, so all you really need to do is sit back and relax!

[garycarla]

Don't feel you are connected at the hip. Maybe arrange to meet once or twice for a communal dinner and leave everyone to enjoy what they want to do when they want.

...

 

Well put. Forced group events can lead to folks not being able to relax and enjoy the cruise.

 

And, remember, for any group event - SOMEBODY will be late, lost or forget. Just the way it is.

[maywell]

Suggestion: Might want to give the Maitre'd of place you're dining at a heads up before going, that more than 8 people will be dining at the location so they can seat you all. Even if it is the MDR, give them a call or talk to them so they have a table ready for you so your group is not waiting centuries for them to put 2 tables together. Doesn't matter if it all of the 45 or just 15; if it more than what the computerized reservation system can handle; you'll need to make some special arrangements. This is especially true if part of your group wants to dine early due to the kids and that time 6 to about 8 is pretty crowded at the restaurants. Pretty much the same advice if it was Land-based restaurant.

Edited November 9, 2014 by maywell

[4774Papa]

Traveled with a group of 14 once. It was a 14 day cruise. We found that we did not spend much time when all of us were together. We had about four meals where all were together. We found that we were generally with groups of 4 or 6. Not everyone wants to do the same thing on the ship, or the same excursions ashore or eat at the same restaurant.

 

Not sure what advantages you can pickup with a large group. I have arranged for meeting with large cruise critic groups with NCL for a portion of one of the bars, etc.

[dexddd]

Traveled with a group of 14 once. It was a 14 day cruise. We found that we did not spend much time when all of us were together. We had about four meals where all were together. We found that we were generally with groups of 4 or 6. Not everyone wants to do the same thing on the ship, or the same excursions ashore or eat at the same restaurant.

 

Not sure what advantages you can pickup with a large group. I have arranged for meeting with large cruise critic groups with NCL for a portion of one of the bars, etc.

 

Been on a few trips like that and our experience as well. People have their own schedules, likes, dislikes, trying to get everyone to even have dinner a few nights was tough.

[LrgPizza]

Every ship has a dedicated Group Services Coordinator. You might want to contact that person with questions or for suggestions. I'm sure others here can provide more info on that.